Sopranos to Awaken the Dead at Opera in the Ruins

Media Release
February 3 2009 Opera - 1

Sopranos to Awaken the Dead at Opera in the Ruins

opera performers tuning up their stage smiles within Kingston’s convict ruins.

Norfolk Island’s infamous ghosts will be serenaded by angelic choruses during the 5th annual Norfolk Island Opera in the Ruins Festival from February 23 to 27.

New Zealand’s own ‘Pacific Pavarotti,’ Ben Makisi is headlining as this year’s guest tenor accompanied by pianist Lynne Sterling Jordan.

Of Samoan and Tongan descent, Ben is New Zealand’s finest Pacific operatic tenor with bachelor and masters degrees in music and an awards list stretching from Rotorua to Barcelona and many points in between.

Sometimes referred to as the Polynesian Pavarotti, Ben is scheduled to take the stage with Dame Kiri Te Kanawa in Wellington on Valentine’s Day, February 14 before flying out to Norfolk Island. He recently sang at the Nelson Opera in the Park with mezzo Helen Medlyn and soprano Anna Leese.

The headline act at this year’s Opera in the Ruins is Brisbane’s boutique opera company Operatif, featuring soprano Jennifer Parish, baritone Stewart Cameron and mezzo Dorothy Williams.

Providing an added attraction this year is renowned Australian pianist Janet Bower.

In addition the Queensland Pop Orchestra Trio under concert master Julie-Anne O’Reilly will offer a selection of string and cinema classics, ballads and operetta. The artists perform in the island’s historic convict ruins providing for an exciting and sometimes eerie operatic experience.

“Opera in the Ruins continues to be one of the island’s biggest events attracting quality acts and great audiences,” says Norfolk Island Tourism general manager Terry Watson.

“It’s not every day you get the chance to listen to stunning music in such a dramatic setting. And before the show, visitors can take time out to relax on our beautiful beaches, snorkel in stunning Emily Bay, paddle kayaks around the rugged coastline, explore the specialty shops to unearth some treasures, feast on the catch of the day at a sunset BBQ fish-fry or take in a round of golf at our scenic golf course,” he added.

ENDS

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